How are hemorrhagic fevers (HFs) treated?

In the past several years, much progress has been made in understanding the molecular biology of viral hemorrhagic fever (VHF) viruses and how they cause disease. However, drugs or vaccines are currently unavailable for the treatment of most VHFs.

The antiviral drug ribavirin is effective for Lassa fever, which is caused by an arenavirus, if given early in the course of the disease. However, use of ribavirin is associated with birth defects. Therefore, women of childbearing age who are prescribed ribavirin should be advised to use birth control. Other antiviral drugs are under investigation for the treatment of VHF.

Treatment is generally aimed at the reduction of symptoms and prevention of management of complications. Treatment should ensure adequate fluids and electrolytes, maintenance of proper breathing, monitoring of kidney and bladder function, and treatment of any secondary infections.

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